No matter how you plan and optimize the tile usage, the need of cutting ceramic tiles cannot be eliminated completely. The right tile cutter can help you to perform your work more precisely and safely.
Ceramic tile cutters are tools that are required to cut ceramic and porcelain tiles and are used by construction workers, plumbers, interior workers and more. But with numerous options available, it is a daunting task to get the right one for your usage.
This comprehensive guide will talk about how to choose the perfect ceramic tile cutter for your needs. From features to the different types of tile cutters available, this post will take you through making the right choice.
What is a Ceramic Tile cutter?
Ceramic tile cutters are specialized tools used to cut ceramic and porcelain tiles. They are useful when cutting tiles of various sizes, shapes and helpful in performing intricate cutting. Tile cutters come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and specifications.
How to Use Ceramic Tile Cutter?
Cutting ceramic tiles is tougher than normal tiles as ceramic tiles are stronger and costlier. Therefore, you need to take extra care while cutting.
Firstly, you need to mark the cutting lines on the tile by scratching it with the tile cutter. After that, you need to put pressure directly on that scratch line to cut it as per the marking. Some advanced tile cutters have a breaking jig attached which enables them to break the tile seamlessly.
If you use a snap tile cutter, you need to place the tile below the metal ridge and move the hardened cutting wheel. The cutting wheel marks the scratch on the ceramic tile by scoring it and then the pressure bar breaks the tile by applying downside force.
To make a clean and perfect cut without breakage, it is always recommended to get a professional.
Features and Specifications:
Ceramic tile cutters have multiple features, including adjustable guide bars and manual or automatic cutting. The most basic models are the manual tile cutters, which use a lever and wheel to score and snap the tile into two pieces.
It is important to measure and mark the tile before cutting so that the cuts are accurate. Power tile cutters offer greater accuracy and speed when cutting tiles. This type of ceramic tile cutter uses an electric motor to spin a diamond wheel that cuts the tile. It also provides more control when cutting curved and complex shapes.
Types of Ceramic Tile Cutters:
Several types of tile cutters are available, each offering unique advantages.
1. Manual Tile Cutters: Manual ceramic tile cutters are the simplest and most affordable. They work by scoring tile with a cutting wheel or diamond blade and then snapping it along the scored line. These are best for smaller jobs, such as borders or small accent pieces that can be fitted with a manual tile cutter. But these are not so efficient to make long cuts on tough ceramic tiles.
2. Electric Tile Cutters: Electric cutters for ceramic tiles are excellent for larger jobs, as they are much faster and more powerful than manual versions. They use a circular saw with a special diamond-tipped cutting wheel, allowing users to make precise cuts on various tile materials.
3. Ceramic Tile Nibblers: Tile nibblers are great for cutting curved shapes and holes in the tile. They use a cutting wheel to nibble away at a tile’s surface until it reaches the desired shape or size.
4. Porcelain Tile Cutters: Porcelain tile cutters are specially designed to cut porcelain tile with ease and precision. These cutters usually use a diamond-tipped cutting wheel, but some versions are even designed to use a scoring wheel and snapping mechanism.
Safety Measures:
No matter the type of ceramic tile cutter you decide to use, it is important to take proper safety measures to avoid any accidents. As ceramic tiles are comparatively harder than normal tiles, remember to wear the proper personal protective equipment like safety glasses and gloves, and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. With the right tool and safety precautions, you can easily and accurately cut tiles for any project. It is also important to ensure the surface is clean, dry, and level before using the tile cutter to ensure the best results.
Final Words
Whether you want to make a new backsplash, update an old ceramic tile floor, or need to cut tiles for a project, ceramic tile cutters will help you create the perfect pieces. With some research and the insights this guide provides, you can confidently select the right tile cutter for your needs. L&T-SuFin provides the largest variety of tile cutters so that you can find the perfect tool. From manual to electric, portable to wet saws, you can find a quality tile cutter that will make cutting tiles easy and efficient.